IFPA concludes Global Produce & Floral Show, celebrates award winners

The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) concluded its annual Global Produce & Floral Show in Atlanta, marking a transformative event for the fresh produce and floral industries. Over 3,000 buyers and attendees from more than 70 countries gathered to network, explore innovations, and celebrate the industry’s impact on global markets.

“The Global Show is one of the greatest good-for-my-soul moments of the year,” said IFPA CEO Cathy Burns. “This year delivered an incredible mix of innovation and energy that carried through the entire program as the global industry came together once again to celebrate our positive impact on people, plates, and the planet.”

Burns opened the event with her State of the Industry address, highlighting trends in innovation, climate action, and industry advocacy. She announced that IFPA has been granted observer status at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and celebrated the organization’s victory in expanding the WIC program for fresh produce.

During the event, IFPA leaders, including 2024 Chair John Anderson of Oppy and 2025 Chair Tammy DeBoer of Harris Teeter, outlined industry successes and introduced the 2025-2027 Strategic Plan aimed at advancing the future of fresh produce and floral sectors.

Attendees heard from high-profile speakers, such as Netflix co-founder Marc Randolph and Kroger CEO Rodney McMullen, who provided insights into leadership, technology, and industry challenges. The Expo featured more than 1,100 exhibitors, including 130 first-time participants, showcasing new products and innovations.

IFPA also honored several companies with Expo Awards, including Little Leaf Farms for Best First-Time Exhibitor and Bolthouse Fresh Foods for Best Sustainable Packaging.

Award winners

• Best First-Time Exhibitor: Little Leaf Farms
• Best Island Booth in Business Solutions: MSC – Mediterranean Shipping Company
• Best Inline Booth in Business Solutions: Sollum Technologies
• Best Island Booth in Produce: Alpine Fresh/Hippie Organics
• Best Inline Booth in Produce: 80 Acres Farm
• Best Island Booth in Complementary Items: Litehouse Inc.
• Best Inline Booth in Complementary Items: Sun Lovin Foods
• Best Island Booth in Floral: Galleria Farms
• Best Inline Booth in Floral: Dutchess Bouquets

As the event wrapped up, Burns expressed gratitude for the industry’s commitment and looked ahead to the next Global Produce & Floral Show in Anaheim in 2025.